The Co-operative Group (Co-op) said today it is converting its range of bacon, gammon and fresh pork over to British to support UK farmers.
Animal welfare levels will also be raised, the retailer added, because all of this own-brand bacon will be reared to Red Tractor standard.
The move to British from Danish meat on bacon and gammon items is due to be completed by 2 February, while pre-packed hams will follow by the end of March.
Additionally, the Co-op said that from autumn this year all pork used in the products will be from pigs reared in its own “higher-welfare Elmwood specification” as part of the Food Ethical Policy.
Director of food retail marketing Debbie Robinson said: “We are determined to deliver on our commitments to our customer members by leading the way on animal welfare issues and our support for British farmers.
“The challenge has been to secure sufficient British supplies in what is a difficult market.”
David Clarke, chief executive of World Food Standards, added: “We are delighted by The Co-op’s commitment to sourcing Red Tractor-approved pigs, representing their high standards of quality, food safety and traceability, as well as animal welfare.”
All of the Co-op’s own-brand premium Truly Irresistible pork, bacon and sausage ranges are now made using Freedom-Food accredited meat.
The company also enjoyed a strong Christmas, with like-for-like sales up 6%.
